And a big scare for passengers on a united airlines flight. They hit turbulence that was so severe, several flight attendants were injured. Abc's john muller has more. Reporter: This morning a midair nightmare. The plane started shaking from side to side. Reporter: Brian was 1 of more than 200 on board when turbulence rocked the cabin forcing the pilot to turn around and head home. We lost altitude. Reporter: It set out from newark to beijing but soon after takeoff it hit turbulence injuring five flight attendants. Passengers say this forced the pilot to turn around midair taking them back to new jersey to get them medical help. Passengers say the plane landed safely after about three hours in the air. Some of the flight attendants were getting ready to serve passenger, got hurt. They weren't restrained obviously. Reporter: Those flight attendants taken to local hospitals with minor injuries. Some now wondering why the flight attendants weren't prepared for the rocky ride ahead. The aircraft designed to take the stress from turbulence. It's what happens to the people not belted in that aircraft. Reporter: United airlines say they're reviewing the event and accommodated passengers with hotels and a new flight this morning. John muller, abc news, new york.

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